Which of the following pregnancy outcomes is associated with poor maternal oral health?

• A. Preterm & low birth weight (PLBW)
• B. Increased infant height
• C. Decreased neonatal reflexes
• D. Postpartum weight loss

Answer: (A)

Poor maternal oral health can influence pregnancy outcomes through systemic inflammation and infection. Inflammation from gum disease releases mediators such as prostaglandins and cytokines into the bloodstream, which can reach the placenta and potentially trigger uterine contractions or alter fetal growth. Bacteria from periodontal pockets can also enter the bloodstream and reach the fetal–placental unit, contributing to intrauterine inflammation or infection that increases the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Because these inflammatory and infectious pathways are the most consistently linked mechanisms, preterm delivery with low birth weight is the outcome most associated with poor maternal oral health. The other options do not have established connections to maternal gum disease in the same way.